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Ethylmalonic Acid/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures urinary ethylmalonic acid relative to creatinine, which helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This urine test evaluates the relative amount of ethylmalonic acid and may help assess certain metabolic disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108357-5
Short code
Ethylmalonate/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Ethylmalonate/Creat Msmt Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures ethylmalonic acid, a small molecule that can be produced during normal metabolism. The result is compared with the amount of creatinine in the same urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used in the evaluation of symptoms or findings associated with fatty-acid metabolism disorders, including problems related to short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. Creatinine is measured at the same time so the ethylmalonic acid result can be reported relative to creatinine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Depending on the test, you may be asked to provide a first-morning urine sample or collect urine for a specified period.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urinary ethylmalonic acid ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine urine creatinine test?
No. Creatinine is used to help normalize the urine result, while the test specifically measures ethylmalonic acid relative to creatinine.
What does a high result mean?
A high result may suggest impaired fatty-acid metabolism, but it does not by itself confirm a specific disorder. Your clinician will interpret it alongside other findings.
Does the test require a blood sample?
No. The test is performed on a urine sample, although additional blood tests may sometimes be needed for evaluation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy